Los Angeles Poet Laureate Brian Sonia-Wallace

Overview

The City of Los Angeles Poet Laureate serves as a creative leader and cultural ambassador, advancing the civic importance of poetry, literature, and the spoken word across Los Angeles. In partnership with the Los Angeles Public Library and the Department of Cultural Affairs, the Poet Laureate engages communities through public programming, workshops, and performances that reflect the city's cultural richness and diverse voices.

Program Focus

• Expanding access to poetry and literary arts across neighborhoods
• Engaging communities through inclusive programming
• Activating civic and public spaces through participatory art
• Supporting emerging writers and amplifying underrepresented voices
• Encouraging dialogue, reflection, and community connection through poetry

Available Program Offerings

• On-the-Spot Typewriter Poetry: Live, participatory poetry written for residents at public events, resource fairs, and civic gatherings.
• Poetry Performances and Readings: Original work and curated readings presented at civic events, cultural programs, and commemorations.
• Poetry Walks and Public Activations: Temporary or permanent installations that integrate poetry into the built environment.
• Workshops and Classes: Interactive workshops for youth, adults, and intergenerational groups hosted in libraries, schools, community centers, and city programs.

Partnership Opportunities

• Cultural programming and public events
• Community engagement initiatives
• Educational and youth development programs
• Public art and placemaking efforts
• Special projects aligned with Citywide campaigns or commemorations

How to Work with the Poet Laureate

City departments, agencies, and partners are encouraged to collaborate with the Poet Laureate to integrate poetry into civic life, public programming, and community engagement efforts. Brian works in English and Spanish and has led programs with youth, older adults, LGBTQ+ and HIV+ communities, immigrant and refugee communities, and systems impacted communities.

Contact

To inquire about collaborating with the Los Angeles Poet Laureate, contact [email protected].